[norwis09]

We are ordering a high throughput homoginizer from VWR.  We have the option of ordering polycarbonate or polyethylene vials to use in combination with stainless steel grinding balls.  The material being ground is plant material in extraction buffer.  Which material, polycarbonate or polyethylene, is the better choice?

[typhoon2028]

Polycarbonate:

Pros
wide working temperature range
great impact strength
good optical properties (very clear)

Cons
usually costs more
chemical resistivity concerns
can release bisphenol A

Polyethylene

Pros

great chemical resistivity
cost

Cons

softens when heated
melting point between 105-130C (depending on grade)


If your working temperature is below 120F, I would go with the polyethylene material.  Is polypropylene available?

[norwis09]

polypropylene is not available. 

Thank you for the information

[kwak]

If you use buffer (this sounds aqueous to me) both are fine. If I were you I would use PE. Polycarbonate is transparent but sometimes brittle.